3 environmental jobs that are redesigning the world we live in

According to the European Union, between 2000 and 2018, employment and gross value added grew faster in the environmental economy than in the overall economy employment. It’s not just Europe that has seen this surge in environmental jobs, but green careers are cropping up in countries around the globe. The reason for this increased demand?

The planet is at a stage where demand for resources is outstripping supply and there is the need for environmental experts who can think creatively about how we can work with nature, minimise our impact, and even improve climate conditions through carbon negative initiatives. All this will ensure that the natural environment is left in a good condition for future generations.

Here are three environmental jobs that are redesigning the world we live in for the better:

Hydrogeologist

Humans, animals and plants all rely on water more than any other natural resource. It’s needed for drinking, growing food, sanitation and hygiene and the manufacturing of clothes and other goods.

The global water demand is expected to increase by 20-30% by 2050, so there’s a pressing need for experts who can not only ensure that the quality does not deteriorate, but also help to conserve water.

This is where hydrogeologists come in. They study how water moves through the soil and rocks, investigating the quality of water and checking that it’s safe for its intended use. This enables them to design better solutions for water catchments, supply and flow. The role of a hydrologist has transformed over the years and water management teams are now helping to deliver innovative solutions to some of the biggest sustainability issues, like protecting water sources from pollution.

This is just one side of the job. Hydrogeologists also act as the interface between people and the water environment. They collect data from the field and GIS analysis to help other experts understand processes such as glaciation, river formation, flood risks.

Hydrogeologists work across groundwater and surface water supply projects, leading field monitoring programmes, assisting with borehole design, advising on resource optimisation and undertaking environmental assessments. They solve water resources challenges, working alongside project hydrogeologists, senior hydrogeologists, hydrologists, engineers, economists, policymakers and planners.

Environmental planner

The planet is facing several environmental challenges, including flooding, heat waves, poor air quality and loss of biodiversity. In response, governments are proposing environmental plans that will improve water and air quality and protect threatened species. The UK, as part of the Nature Recovery Network, set the target of creating and restoring 500,000 hectares of wildlife-rich habitat. It is the environmental planners who act as the bridge between these governing bodies and the infrastructure industry, putting the environment at the centre of the discussion and ensuring the health and wellbeing of society.

All large-scale infrastructure projects will involve a team of planners who specialise in the environment, meaning that environmental planners will gain exposure to a variety of infrastructures, such as transit, road and highway, and power. They conduct environmental assessments and analyse building projects, reporting back to internal and external stakeholders about the perceived impact on the environment. Environmental planners are therefore involved in proposal writing and supporting business development efforts, balancing the economics with the environment and society.

Their involvement in carrying out permitting for construction means environmental planners have a vast knowledge of environmental regulations and guidelines. They use this specialist knowledge to avoid and mitigate any problems between the built environment and the natural environment. Environmental planning is therefore a prime example of how you can build a career for a sustainable future.

Environmental planners work closely with town planners and transport planners and project managers. They also coordinate with environmental specialists such as fisheries, built heritage, archaeology and terrestrial ecologists and coordinate with regulatory agencies. The job involves a great deal of collaboration, negotiation and problem-solving.

Geotechnical engineer

An English geotechnical engineer, John Burland, was the first person to solve the 800-year-old mystery of the leaning tower of Pisa, identifying a fluctuating water table as the cause of the 5.5 degrees lean.

Geotechnical engineering is a blend of physical geography and engineering. More specifically, it’s the use of knowledge of soil and rock to assess the hazards of an infrastructure project. Geotechnical engineers ensure that roads and highways, tunnels, railways, dams, towers and other large infrastructure are designed to a high quality and are built to last.

Geotechnical engineers play an important role in civil engineering projects and are involved in all stages of the design of structures, from concept to construction. Through inspections, reviews and other studies related to the design of a project, they report back the feasibility of an engineering plan and participate in the preparation of service proposals. Their seismic analysis enables them to protect the earth’s physical environment during development projects and through the mapping of technical results, they can determine any major risks.

Participating in multidisciplinary teams, they’ll work closely with senior geotechnical engineers, chief geotechnical engineers, drainage engineers, pavement engineers, environmental consultants and civil engineers.

Help us tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges

Founded in 1911, AtkinsRéalis has established a global standing as a respected design, engineering and project management consultancy and is recognised as a major player in the ownership of infrastructure. We’re at the forefront of the sustainability revolution, focusing not only on how we can transform our world but what we can do to improve it for the better.

We recognise that for the UK to fulfil its pledge to become Net Zero by 2050 we as a company need to think about our contribution. To do that we need talented professionals to help us tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges. If you’re interested in an environmental job, you can view our water jobs, minerals & metallurgy jobs, or environment & geoscience jobs and submit your application.

Looking for more information on environmental jobs? Take a look at our insights into sustainability.

List #1

Our articles

Unlock NEOM careers with AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/18/2024

Summary

In the vast expanse of the Saudi Arabian landscape, you’ll find a beacon of innovation, a vision for a better, greener tomorrow. NEOM sits in the heart of the Tabuk province and isn’t just anothe

Preview

NEOM sits in the heart of the Tabuk province and isn’t just another city.

Young male engineer working on construction site wearing ear protectors

What does it take to be an effective civil engineer in Hong Kong?

Preview

Asia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/18/2024

Summary

As a global metropolis, Hong Kong has long been a fantastic place to be a civil engineer. With world-class infrastructure all around, effective civil engineers have many opportunities to be a

Preview

Here are a few strategies that professionals new to the industry can deploy to be effective civil engineers in Hong Kong.

Pinkish colourful sunrise over Sydney city CBD on waterfront of Harbour around Circular quay with major architectural landmarks and symbols of Australia.

Embracing motherhood and career: Srijana's journey with AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Australia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/18/2024

Summary

In January 2024, Srijana embarked on a new chapter in her engineering career, joining AtkinsRealis as a Chartered Structural Engineer. With six years of experience on a wide variety of projects, Sr

Preview

Learn about our commitment to flexibility with Srijana's career story.

A lit up Saudi Arabian castle in the evening, with the night sky in the background and palm trees at the front

What is the New Murabba project in Saudi Arabia?

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/16/2024

Summary

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), you’ll find an awe-inspiring and profoundly transformative endeavor that encapsulates innovation, sustainability, and the unparalleled proficiency of AtkinsRéa

Preview

Learn about the innovative New Murabba project in Saudi Arabia.

7 reasons mechanical engineers won't leave AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/11/2024

Summary

Hello, I'm Ben, Mechanical Team Lead in the Decommissioning & Waste Services team. My journey at AtkinsRéalis, from a graduate to a team lead, has been inspired by my belief that we can "engin

Preview

#MakeItBrilliant: Exciting opportunities in mechanical engineering and nuclear power careers

Shailaja Mantha

Nuclear

Nuclear professional in modern factory using laptop controlling program to automatic machinery.

How to land a nuclear engineering job without nuclear experience

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

Welcome to the dynamic world of nuclear engineering – where innovation meets sustainability. We unveil the pathway to landing a nuclear engineering job, even without prior experience in the nuclea

Preview

Explore exciting opportunities in nuclear with AtkinsRéalis.

Nuclear

Building the Future Together: The DEWA Headquarters Project

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Projects

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

The AtkinsRéalis team, in a commendable collaboration with the site team, United Engineering Construction (UNEC), and its subcontractors, has exhibited exceptional dedication and expertise, making

Preview

Discover how the AtkinsRéalis team is spearheading the evolution of net-zero energy buildings.

Breaking New Ground: Celebrating the Exceptional Women of AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

In the world of construction and development, where innovation meets hard work under the towering silhouettes of our projects, the role of women has been historically underrepresented. However, the

Preview

The inspiring story of Farida Farag, a beacon of leadership and innovation at AtkinsRéalis.

Electrical engineer and foreman checking plans in a tablet at at construction site

Soft skills you need to succeed as a senior electrical engineer

Preview

Canada

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/03/2024

Summary

In any career, it’s easy to get tunnel-vision and apply more weight to the development of technical skills. What many fail to recognize is the importance of fostering your soft skills; that is,

Preview

Unlock the soft skills that elevate your career beyond technical expertise

Innovation

panorama of beautiful countryside of romania. sunny afternoon. wonderful springtime landscape in mountains. grassy field and rolling hills. rural scenery

Join Our Landscape & Public Realm team in India & unlock your future

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/02/2024

Summary

Are you passionate to shape the future of cities and public realm ? At AtkinsRealis, our GTC Landscape & Public Realm team isn't just a service—it's a gateway to boundless opportunities, innovation

Preview

Are you passionate about shaping the future of cities and public realm?

Building and places

How to choose the right engineering firm for you

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

03/27/2024

Summary

The engineering firm you choose will significantly impact your career. Select the right one, and you'll find your career goals supported, a healthy work-life balance and the team dynamic that you

Preview

Unlock your potential in engineering with AtkinsRéalis.

IMechE - technical paper writing competition winners

AtkinsRéalis Triumphs in IMechE Technical Paper Competition 2023

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

03/27/2024

Summary

Our Global Technology Centre’s recent triumph in securing the 1st prize at the prestigious Institute of Mechanical Engineers’ (IMechE) Technical Paper Competition 2023 under the working young membe

Preview

Learn about our recent GTC success.

View all

Insights 3 environmental jobs that are redesigning the world we live in

Hydrogeologist

Environmental planner

Geotechnical engineer

Help us tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Insights 3 environmental jobs that are redesigning the world we live in

Hydrogeologist

Environmental planner

Geotechnical engineer

Help us tackle some of the most pressing environmental challenges

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis

Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests